The latest stories from the world of rock music - from Rock Hall inductions to forgotten blues rock classics.
Rock Hall Reveals More Special Guests and Performers for Class of 2025 Induction Ceremony
The Rock Hall has revealed additional names to the lineup of special guests and performers for the induction ceremony of its Class of 2025 to be held on Nov. 8. The latest names, announced on Oct. 21, are Mick Fleetwood, Nancy Wilson, Joe Perry, Jerry Cantrell and Nathaniel Rateliff. They’ll join Elton John, David Letterman, Iggy Pop, Olivia Rodrigo, Questlove, Brandi Carlile, Flea, and Beck, who were announced on Oct. 8.
The inductees, revealed on April 27, were led by Bad Company, Joe Cocker and Warren Zevon, each of whom had been overlooked for years, and finally chosen decades after they first became eligible. Zevon, ignored again on the Performers ballot, got in via the Musical Influence category. He’ll be inducted by longtime pal, Letterman.
Bad Company
Upon hearing of the news of their selection, the surviving members of Bad Company cheered the news. "If I were a gambling man I would wager that Bad Company fans and friends had something to do with this nomination for The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame,” said Paul Rodgers. “I’ve been told there has been a movement afoot for some time, and we salute them for their persistence and dedication."
Joe Cocker
Cocker, who died in 2014, was the subject of a significant PR blitz from many of rock’s biggest stars, led by Paul McCartney. In a letxter dated February 25 and addressed “Dear Rock and Rollers,” he urged the voting panel to check Cocker’s name on their ballots. “I know he would be extremely happy and grateful to find himself where he deserves to be amongst such illustrious company,” he wrote.
Warren Zevon
Zevon, ignored again on the Performers ballot, got in via the Musical Influence category. He’ll be inducted by longtime pal, Letterman.
10 Forgotten Blues Rock Albums You Should Hear
Roy Buchanan – In the Beginning (1974)
Few guitarists command the kind of emotional intensity Roy Buchanan did. Known for coaxing cries, whispers, and howls from his Telecaster, Buchanan’s work often bordered on otherworldly. His 1974 album In the Beginning shows him at his most soulful and spontaneous, filled with electrifying tone and understated brilliance.
Savoy Brown – Street Corner Talking (1971)
When it comes to British blues rock, Savoy Brown rarely gets the same attention as Fleetwood Mac or Ten Years After, but they were every bit as fiery. Their 1971 release Street Corner Talking captures the band in top form, fusing blues, boogie, and rock with unfiltered energy.
Rory Gallagher – Photo-Finish (1978)
Rory Gallagher’s catalog is full of fan favorites, but Photo-Finish often flies under the radar despite being one of his most cohesive and hard-hitting efforts. Recorded after dissolving his long-time lineup, Gallagher reemerged with a leaner, grittier trio that reignited his live energy in the studio.
Robin Trower – Caravan to Midnight (1978)
Best known for Bridge of Sighs, Robin Trower hit a creative stride in the mid to late ’70s that many fans overlook. Caravan to Midnight reveals a more soulful and introspective side of his playing, merging smooth grooves with haunting melodies.
Johnny Winter – Still Alive and Well (1973)
By the early 1970s, Johnny Winter had already cemented his reputation as one of blues rock’s fiercest gunslingers, but his comeback album Still Alive and Well often gets lost among his prolific output. Recorded after a turbulent period in his life, this record reestablished Winter as a fiery and fearless force.
Free – Highway (1970)
Free’s Highway followed the massive success of “All Right Now,” but the album’s understated tone caught fans off guard. Rather than chase radio hits, the band delivered a set of introspective, soulful songs that leaned into maturity over flash.
Eric Gales – Crystal Vision (2006)
Eric Gales is finally receiving long-overdue recognition, but his early 2000s catalog is packed with overlooked treasures. Crystal Vision, released in 2006, is a fiery blend of Hendrix-inspired guitar wizardry and deeply personal songwriting.
Henrik Freischlader – Recorded by Martin Meinschäfer (2009)
Henrik Freischlader’s Recorded by Martin Meinschäfer is one of the most overlooked gems of modern European blues rock. Released in 2009, it captures Freischlader at a creative peak, blending gritty blues tones with soulful vocals and tasteful production.
Jeff Healey – Get Me Some (2000)
Jeff Healey’s final studio album with The Jeff Healey Band, Get Me Some, didn’t get nearly the attention it deserved upon release. By 2000, radio had shifted away from guitar-driven rock, but this record proves Healey was still playing at an extraordinary level.
Aynsley Lister – Equilibrium (2009)
Aynsley Lister’s Equilibrium stands as one of his most complete and refined albums, yet it often flies under the radar among blues rock fans. Released in 2009, it finds Lister perfectly balancing heartfelt songwriting with tasteful, melodic guitar work.
